How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, you can get your window back into working order by doing a few easy steps.

The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Cracked or broken Panes

A cracked or broken glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass, and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can cause cracks of this kind.

There are a few quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes to keep out the elements of wind, water and bugs until you consider a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution however it will keep your home warm and dry until you are able to make a permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix will require more effort however it can last for several years and stop the crack from becoming worse. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window is damaged, it can ruin the appearance of your home and also cause water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are typically caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to drain the water away from the home.

It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your house if you spot a leak. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills, window repairs and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a long time.

A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you've got a problem that has been brewing for a long time.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business for window repair if you find that your window is leaking. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it's an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and made the repairs, they'll be able to provide advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, forming fog. This happens naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are a few reasons why a window with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing may cause the break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for window repairs more than ten years and is now hazy it might be too late to file an claim.

The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new high-quality window that does not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. There are other benefits, such as a warm home and lower energy bills. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you get the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious issue that can lead to higher heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues in your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape from your home, while allowing cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.

The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This can be a costly issue to fix and could require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to locate an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any areas that the flame moves or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with the seals on your windows or panes could require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted correctly. This is the only way to know that you'll save money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for free! We're looking forward getting in touch with you!